McDonald's has confirmed it is shutting all its outlets in the Republic of Ireland and in Northern Ireland.
(Source: Wikimedia Commons)The Irish Farmers' Association says the closure of McDonald's restaurants across the country is a huge blow for Ireland's beef industry.
One in five hamburgers sold in McDonald's in Europe is of Irish origin.
Management at the fast food chain have said closing down is the only way to keep staff and customers safe during the pandemic.
IFA President Tim Cullinan has warned that farmers will take a hit:
"The volume of sales in retail has improved vastly over the last number of days but obviously this is a major concern. McDonald's are a huge buyer of Irish beef, not just here in Ireland but right across Europe as well."
Tonight's announcement from @McDonalds of the closure of Irish and UK restaurants is a blow for Irish beef. It's an important buyer of our quality product. @TimCullinan_IFA was in contact with @EU_Commission last week about supports for farmers. https://t.co/QsrjIXdTWc #COVID19
— Irish Farmers' Association (@IFAmedia) March 22, 2020
